Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that is commonly brought on by foods, medications, insect venom, and latex. It is the most dangerous and least common allergic reaction.
Defining Anaphylaxis
First, it's important to understand the immune system. It is the body's defense against invaders -- foreign substances that the immune system thinks may harm you. The immune system releases antibodies to attack the foreign substances. When the substance is an allergen, chemicals released by the immune system cause a reaction -- eyes watering, nose running, etc. After the initial exposure, the immune system becomes sensitized to the allergen, causing the reaction following the next exposure to be sudden and severe.
In anaphylaxis, your immune system has a dramatic reaction to an allergen. Histamine and other chemicals released by your immune system cause several reactions in the body, including a drop in blood pressure, narrowing of the bronchial tubes, and difficulty breathing. Your body may react within seconds or minutes after exposure to the allergen. This can be a life-threatening experience. It is imperative that you seek treatment immediately.
Some of the most common allergens include bee, wasp, and hornet stings, food allergies such as nuts, milk, eggs, and shellfish, and medications such as penicillin.
Having a history of allergies or asthma puts you at a higher risk of developing anaphylaxis, as does a family history of asthma, or a previous anaphylactic reaction.
Symptoms
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Anxiety
- Sensation of feeling heart beating
- Skin Redness
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarreha
- Abdominal pain, cramps
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Confusion
- Abnormal Breathing
- Slurred Speech
- Rapid or weak Pulsa
- Bluish skin, lips or nail beds
- Fainting, lightheadedness, dizziness
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. If you have been prescribed a self-administering epi pen, use it or have someone administer the shot. If you do not have this type of medication, get to the nearest emergency room for treatment. Following an anaphylaxis attack, you should see your doctor or an allergy specialist to determine what caused the attack and to develop a treatment plan.
Diagnosis
A physician will diagnose anaphylaxis by physical examination; listening to your lungs for wheezing or fluid; monitoring your pulse for rapid or weak pulse; checking the appearance of your skin for hives, paleness from shock, bluishness from lack of oxygen; and listening to your heart for arrhythmia. They will also check for mental confusion after signs of shock.
Treatment
This is an emergency condition. Call 911.
An assessment of the airway, breathing, and circulation by a paramedic or ER doctor will be done immediately to determine if CPR is needed. After your first adverse reaction, your doctor may prescribe an allergy kit, including an epi pen and instructions. Make sure your family and coworkers know how to use it. You should wear a Medical Alert bracelet or necklace.
Paramedics or ER doctors may put a tube down your nose and throat to help with breathing. If the situation warrants, a tracheotomy tube may be placed directly in your throat.
Epinephrine may be administered to help open airways and raise blood pressure. Other treatments include intravenous fluids and medications to support your heart and circulatory system. Antihistamines will help to further reduce symptoms.